Arctic researchers receive Polar Medals from Governor General

Gov. Gen. Mary Simon awarded the Polar Medal to two researchers for what she said was an “extraordinary service to Arctic communities.”

The recipients are Marie-Pierre Parenteau, who works for the Department of National Defence, and Whitney Lackenbauer of Trent University.

“In 2026, I cannot say strongly enough how vital this work is — how much it matters to our country and to our shared future,” Simon said on May 21, during the ceremony at the Citadelle of Quebec. “For a long time, there was a disconnect between the needs of Arctic peoples and the decisions that shaped their lives, not to mention the legacy of colonialism.”

Lackenbauer has been an occasional contributor of op-ed articles to Nunatsiaq News.

“With a proliferation of perceived security and sovereignty challenges through, to, and in the Arctic, it is more important than ever to characterize threats appropriately,” Lackenbauer said in a Wednesday news release issued by the university.

In a LinkedIn post, Parenteau acknowledged several Nunavummiut in Cambridge Bay, whom she called the “family”.

“I am incredibly proud, but also deeply humbled by this recognition,” she wrote.

It’s the first time in her five-year term that Simon awarded the Polar Medal, which is reserved for those who “make significant scientific contributions, further the knowledge or exploration of the polar regions, contribute to securing Canada’s northern sovereignty and strengthen our appreciation of northern Canada and its people,” according to the Governor General’s website.

This will be one of the last medals given out by Simon as her term as the King’s representative in Canada is coming to an end. Louise Arbour will replace her on June 8.